Pumpkin Coffee Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful way to welcome in the cozy vibes of fall, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is just the ticket! With its rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices, it’s perfect for those brisk mornings or as a sweet treat to share with friends at gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday brunches. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why it’s one of my all-time favorites!

This cake not only tastes amazing but also fills your kitchen with that warm and inviting aroma that makes you feel right at home. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and can be enjoyed any time of day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the comforting flavors, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this Pumpkin Coffee Cake fits the bill beautifully.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake ahead of time and store it for quick breakfasts or last-minute guests!
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of pumpkin and oil keeps this cake wonderfully moist and tender.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect blend of flavors. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Crumb Topping

• 1/4 cup all purpose flour
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 4 tablespoons cold butter (1/4 cup)

For the Cake

• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 1/2 cup canola oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Variations

One great thing about this Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate chocolate chips: If you’re feeling indulgent, mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness.
• Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to enjoy this treat without worry.

How to Make Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s get your oven preheating to 350° F. This ensures that your Pumpkin Coffee Cake will bake evenly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

While the oven warms up, spray a 9×9 square baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This little step makes cleanup so much easier!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the flavors throughout the cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin, brown sugar, oil, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and richness to your cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing can make your coffee cake dense instead of fluffy!

Step 6: Spread Batter in Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. This ensures every slice has that delicious crumb topping!

Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, mix together your crumb topping ingredients before adding in cold butter. Use a fork to press everything together until you achieve that crumbly texture.

Step 8: Top It Off!

Sprinkle that amazing crumb topping over the batter in the pan. This will create a beautiful crust that’s hard to resist!

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Pop your coffee cake into the oven for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick comes out mostly clean from the center, it’s ready! If needed, bake for an additional five minutes.

And there you have it—a scrumptious Pumpkin Coffee Cake that’s perfect for any occasion! Enjoy every bite with family over coffee or savor it solo while wrapped up in your favorite blanket. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Making this Pumpkin Coffee Cake is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll achieve a perfect bake every time.

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice can elevate the flavor profile of your cake, making it more aromatic and delicious.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture that’s less cake-like.
• Chill the butter: For the crumb topping, using cold butter helps create that perfect crumbly texture. If you have time, even freeze it for a few minutes before mixing!
• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake 5 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Allow to cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and keeps it from falling apart.

How to Serve Pumpkin Coffee Cake

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas to present it beautifully at your breakfast table or dessert buffet.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with a dollop of whipped coconut cream. It complements the spices wonderfully!
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the coffee cake and adds a burst of color to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that pairs nicely with the warm spices in the coffee cake.
• Herbal tea: A cup of chamomile or peppermint tea makes for a cozy beverage option that enhances the flavors without competing with them.
• Maple syrup drizzle: Serve with a small pitcher of warm maple syrup on the side for those who want an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy this Pumpkin Coffee Cake as part of your morning routine or as an afternoon treat! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Pumpkin Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store any leftovers, or even freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled coffee cake into individual squares.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date the bag/container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350° F.
• Place the desired portion of coffee cake on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and purée it first. You’ll need about 1 cup of puréed fresh pumpkin to replace the canned version in this Pumpkin Coffee Cake recipe.

What can I substitute for canola oil?

You can easily replace canola oil with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil. Both options work well without altering the flavor of your Pumpkin Coffee Cake.

How do I know when my Pumpkin Coffee Cake is done?

To check if your Pumpkin Coffee Cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean with just a few crumbs attached. Remember, if it’s too wet, give it an additional 5 minutes in the oven!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this delightful Pumpkin Coffee Cake! It’s a wonderful way to bring the flavors of fall into your home. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a cozy afternoon snack, this recipe is bound to warm your heart. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy baking!